History

Congress established a series of programs to help FAFSA eligible students enter and complete college. These programs are funded under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and are referred to as the TRIO Programs (initially just three programs). TRIO programs serve low-income, first-generation, and students with disabilities by providing academic support to persist through graduation.

The first TRIO program at the University of North Texas was established in 1980, and there are currently five TRIO programs at UNT. Participants must qualify according to guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Education.

Institutional Support 

TRIO programs at the University of North Texas are integrated into the Division of Student Affairs. Administrative oversight for the programs is the responsibility of the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs who reports directly to the Vice President for Student Affairs.

Eligibility

Congress mandates that two-thirds of TRIO students must come from families with incomes no greater than 150% of federal poverty levels and in which neither parent graduated from college.

Low-income: defined by the U.S. Department of Education: family's taxable income amount is equal to 150% of the poverty level as established by the U.S. Census Bureau.

First generation: defined an individual both of whose parents did not complete a baccalaureate degree.